Don't quote me on this, but I believe that root tabs are best for plants with heavy root systems that are planted in the substrate (ie. Various sword plants, Crypts, etc.). Liquid ferts are most useful for plants that feed from the water column (ie. Java Fern/Moss, Anubias, etc.)

Other, more experienced members can correct or add to this info.Posted via Mobile Device

Don't quote me on this, but I believe that root tabs are best for plants with heavy root systems that are planted in the substrate (ie. Various sword plants, Crypts, etc.). Liquid ferts are most useful for plants that feed from the water column (ie. Java Fern/Moss, Anubias, etc.)

Other, more experienced members can correct or add to this info.Posted via Mobile Device

I'm no expert, but that's what I have read and been told as well. If you have plants that only "feed" from the water column there is no need for root tabs. However, if you do have any rooted plants (like swords and crypts like you mentioned) then they do well with root tabs under them. I've also been told for plants that are like vals that you can break up the root tabs and put the smaller pieces around in the substrate a bit more than the whole tabs.. that spread the beneficial nutrients a bit more, and plants like these won't have such a large root system like the swords (because the individual plants are so much smaller) so it gives them easier access to the root tabs.

If nutrient fertilization is needed, liquid is better for general purposes. I have maintained tanks with substrate-rooted plants (Echinodorus and Helanthium specifically) with just liquid and the plants were fine. However, adding substrate fertilizers (tabs, pellets) in addition to liquid will cause increased growth in swords and similar plants, as has been mentioned.

I have not experimented with using only the tabs, but I would suspect this might not be sufficient. Plants assimilate some nutrients from the water through their leaves, so these nutrients stuck in the substrate will not do much. I do have one tank with an enriched substrate which supposedly contains these nutrients. I do know that without liquid being added the same as in my other tanks, the plants in this tank did not do well; quite the opposite.

A complete liquid fertilizer, like the Seachem Flourish Comprehensive Supplement, provides all nutrients needed (except oxygen, carbon and hydrogen). There are a couple others that do the same. One of these ponce a week should suffice. But again, with the larger swords (like Echinodorus bleherae, Echinodorus cordifolius, etc) a root tab in addition will benefit.

The aquarist is one who must learn the ways of the biologist, the chemist, and the veterinarian.[unknown source]

Something we all need to remember: The fish you've acquired was quite happy not being owned by you, minding its own business. If you’re going to take it under your wing then you’re responsible for it. Every aspect of its life is under your control, from water quality and temperature to swimming space. [Nathan Hill in PFK]